Struggling Vandy just not same team

College Gridiron 365 - Gators Beat

November 2, 2009|By Jeremy Fowler, Sentinel Staff Writer

*LET'S LOOK AHEAD: With a 0-5 conference record and a five-game losing streak overall, Vanderbilt just isn't the same team that won its first bowl game in 53 years last season. After all, the Commodores (2-5) lost to Army more than three weeks ago. Vanderbilt is worst in the conference with 18.2 points per game, and QB Larry Smith completes 47 percent of his passes. The performance is curious after the Commodores returned 18 starters off last year's team. With Florida's defense regaining its knack for creating turnovers, the Gators should be able to fluster Vanderbilt to give QB Tim Tebow and the offense good field position.

*LET'S REVIEW: The Gators played their best game in more than a month after showcasing the best linebacking corps in the country that generated four interceptions for prime field position. Florida's offense was at its best in the first half while not settling for Tim Tebow rushing plays and relying more on play-action fakes, tailback production and the big-play ability of WR Riley Cooper.